Postharvest conservation of Pereskia aculeata (Ora-pro-nobis) leaves in different packages

Pereskia aculeata is a perennial Cactaceae, well-adapted to the tropical Brazilian climate and soil conditions. Their leaves are recommended as fibre and protein sources in alimentation, rich in minerals and have low calories. Its consumption is restricted to some places, in general small cities in the countryside, cultivated by small farmers. The aim of this work was to evaluate the quality attributes of this non-conventional vegetable, with storage in three different packages. The treatments were polypropylene bags (PP), expanded polystyrene trays and plastic films (EPS + Film) and polyethylene terephytalate packs (PET), for 9 days at 5 degrees C and 90% RH. The evaluations included soluble solids content (SSC), phenolic compounds and antioxidant activity by ORAC and TEAC methods. SSC increases were observed in product in all packages tested during the storage period, with similar results for phenolic content and antioxidant activity. Even after 9 days, the Pereskia aculeata were acceptable for consumption and remain as good source of phenolic compounds and has retained antioxidant activity, confirming its potential healthy attributes.